For over a decade, Mercedes-Benz Vans has been working hard to prove that there is a role for vans in the region. The third generation of Sprinter may be its most balanced box on wheels yet, with the vehicle majoring on fuel economy, safety and versatility.
Talking to T&FME, Thomas Greipel, general manager, Mercedes-Benz Vans Middle East and North Africa (MENA), says last year’s mandatory switch to EURO 4 for new diesel vehicles regulation by the Emirates Authority For Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) should encourage the adoption of environmentally-friendly fleets in the UAE – with the quality of fuel offered also being improved.
For Mercedes-Benz Vans, the improvements in fuel quality means EURO V vehicles can be offered in the region. Products which, like the third-generation Sprinter, are more technologically advanced, he says. For example, engines with improved fuel consumption and reduced in-engine friction are part of the competitive line-up of the third generation Sprinter.
“All in all, the improvements enable Mercedes-Benz Vans to introduce an engine and automatic transmission portfolio across the Middle East that sets the technological benchmark in terms of exemplary economy and powerful driving characteristics,” says Greipel.
Mercedes-Benz Vans is regarded as a pioneer in the introduction of modern safety technologies in the large van segment – and was the first van manufacturer to offer cross-wind assist as standard. With modern safety and assistance systems playing an increasingly important role in this segment throughout the region, fleets want their commercial vehicles to remain controllable despite their relatively large dimensions as they are pushed to their limits and over long distances.
Consequently, the new Sprinter offers a whole range of optional safety and assistance systems that were previously only available within its passenger car series, including the radar-based distance control system DISTRONIC, Active Brake Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist.
“Mercedes-Benz Vans third-generation Sprinter range comes equipped with modern safety and assistance systems with advanced technology that offers support in critical traffic situations to keep drivers and other motorists safe,” Griepel tells T&FME. “We will continue to develop innovative safety features across all of our models while maintaining the standards of quality and robustness.”
Can the new Sprinter be designed to suit your needs? Find out more in the August issue of Truck & Fleet Middle East.
